Microbicides & PrEP

The term microbicide refers to a new type of product being developed that people could use vaginally or rectally to protect themselves from HIV and possibly other sexually transmitted infections. A microbicide could be produced in many forms, including gels, creams, suppositories, films, or as a sponge or ring that releases the active ingredient over time. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) involves HIV-negative people taking antiretrovirals (ARVs)—the same drugs used to treat HIV—to prevent becoming HIV-infected.

PHRU researchers are investigating these and other novel approaches for the prevention of HIV.